Orf Virus Infections in Animals and Humans: Epidemiology, Pathogenesis, Diagnosis, and Control Strategies

Orf virus, a zoonotic parapoxvirus, primarily affects sheep, goats, and other ruminants, causing a self-limiting skin disease characterized by contagious pustular lesions. Humans can become infected through direct contact with infected animals or contaminated materials, often resulting in painful papules and pustules. The virus has a significant impact on the livestock industry, causing economic losses due to reduced productivity and increased treatment costs. Diagnosis is typically based on clinical presentation and confirmed through laboratory techniques such as PCR or virus isolation. While there is no specific cure, supportive care, antiviral therapies, and medicinal plants can help alleviate symptoms. Preventive measures, including animal vaccination, strict hygiene, quarantine of infected animals, and public education, are crucial in reducing the incidence of Orf virus in both animal and human populations. This review highlights the importance of understanding the molecular biology, pathogenesis, and epidemiology of Orf virus to develop effective control strategies and mitigate its impact on animal and human health.